Welcome to Te Āpiti
Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge is a national taonga. Its unique geography and rich cultural history make it a must do for any trip to the Manawatū-Whanganui Region.
Car parks at the Ashhurst end to the west and Ferry Reserve to the east provide ease of access to a number of tracks and trails, as well as river reserves, and camping and BBQ facilities to help you explore and enjoy this unique landscape.
TAWA LOOP TRACK CLOSED – 21 MARCH 2025
Please note that the Tawa Loop Track in Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge will be closed to allow for site preparation for the upcoming track upgrade. The Manawatū Gorge track is open via Woodville end only. It is not accessible via the Tawa Loop Track.
CARPARK HOURS FOR ACCESS: Summer access hours for the temporary carpark at the Ashhurst end of the Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge walking track have changed slightly.
The carpark is open from 5am to 9pm during October through to April. Previously the summer closing time was 10pm.
The gates at the intersection of Napier Rd and Fitzherbert East Rd will be locked from 9pm from now on, and members of the public are asked to please ensure they vacate the area before this time.
The winter opening hours of 6am to 7pm between May and September remain, and this does not impact access to the track from the Woodville end.
Ngā kōrero tuku iho mō Te Āpiti
The cultural history of Te Āpiti
Māori kōrero is filled with legends that show Aotearoa through spirits, magic and mysticism. The legend of Te Āpiti is no exception. Its story is filled with supernatural beings, curiosities of nature, and a connection to the land that goes far beyond what can be explained.
